Are you dreaming of a photo session surrounded by jaw-dropping mountain views, alpine lakes, and lush, wild landscapes? Rocky Mountain National Park is by far one of the most Colorado-coded spots in the mountains! Whether your up for an adventure and long hike, or just want to find something easy close to a parking lot, there are those and everything in between.

But before we dive into the fun part, here’s a quick heads-up: depending on the time of year, Rocky Mountain National Park has a timed entry system. Yep, this popular spot can get pretty busy, especially in the summer and fall, so they’ve implemented a system to make sure everyone can enjoy the park’s beauty without the crowds. This means you’ll need to snag a timed entry permit in advance—no biggie, but something to keep in mind when planning your session!

Now, let’s talk about the amazing spots we can explore together:

Lily Lake: One of my personal favorite spots - it’s right next to the parking lot and has an easy trail that loops all the way around the lake. Lake views, mountain peaks, and some forest trails? Perfect for those couples who want the mountain vibe without the long walks or really crazy crowds. Oh, and guess what…you can get to it without actually going through the park entrance. You do still need a pass (the park rangers will check), but lucky for you, I always get an annual pass!
Trail Ridge Road: Want a location that screams “epic”? Trail Ridge Road is the highest continuous paved road in the U.S., offering sweeping views that will make your photos look straight out of a postcard. We can stop at various pull-offs along the way to capture those grand, dramatic shots.
Moraine Park: Picture a wide, open valley surrounded by towering peaks, where rivers gently wind through lush meadows. That’s Moraine Park. It’s especially gorgeous in the fall when the aspens turn golden and the elk make an appearance—talk about a stunning setting! Also a stunning location if you’re thinking about eloping in the park…
Alpine Visitor Center: Feeling adventurous? The Alpine Visitor Center is where we’ll find breathtaking views of the tundra and distant mountain ranges. At this high altitude, the landscape is unlike anything you’ve ever seen — you’re above the treeline so it really feels like you’re on another planet! And may feel like it…be sure to drink lots of water and maybe bring one of those personal oxygen bottles just in case you’re sensitive to altitude change.
Bear Lake: One of the MOST popular spots in the park…there’s no wonder why. It’s easy to get to (with the right pass, typically you have to add it on during timed-entry season), and just stunning. Imagine the sun rising, casting a golden glow over a calm lake that perfectly reflects the surrounding mountains. Sounds dreamy, right? Bear Lake is the go-to spot for those early morning sessions that are pure magic. And if you’re up for a longer hike, just drive up the road a little bit to hike to any of the three lakes - Nympth Lake, Dream Lake, and Emerald Lake! (all along the same trail, so many gorgeous stops!)

Each season brings something special to the park: spring’s wildflowers, summer’s greenery, fall’s vibrant foliage, and winter’s serene snow-covered landscapes. No matter when you book your session, there’s always a stunning spot inside Rocky Mountain National Park. Don’t forget to secure that timed entry permit, and we’ll spend the day capturing beautiful photos while exploring one of my favorite parts of the mountains in Colorado.

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